Post graduation...hmm.

[tomatopincushion]

Been a while since I've posted, hope you're all feeling festive! Since graduation I've been running two or three times a week, the most recent being a 40 minute run (woohoo!). My problem is, I am still going so so slowly. (Embarrassingly I think it's an average of about 10mins per kilometre.) What speed should I be aiming for at this stage? I don't want to start going to parkrun until I can pick up my pace a little!

[Steve_L Graduate]

Don't worry about your pace; it will increase in time as you run regularly. Also, don't worry about Parkrun - there are all levels of runners there, and it's common to have people finishing in 45-50 minutes, which would be you if you really are running at 10 minute pace. Don'r deny yourself the social fun that is Parkrun just because you think you're too slow.

I think if you can do 8 minute pace, you'll be doing well. It takes most people a long time to get down to 6 minute pace, which is that magical 30 minute 5K. Some people never do, but that really isn't important. The joy of running is something to be cherished, and you shouldn't feel that you need to be fast to enjoy it.

[tomatopincushion Graduate in reply to Steve_L]

Thank you. I was starting to feel demoralised! To be fair I am only using the pedometer on my phone at the moment which isn't overly reliable. But I certainly haven't done 5k yet!

[Steve_L Graduate in reply to tomatopincushion]

Try using the Strava or Runkeeper app? That will give you much more information about your runs.

[tomatopincushion Graduate in reply to Steve_L]

Thanks will check them out.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Let's face it, you are still a very new runner, even if you have graduate after your name.

Don't stress about your pace it will come in time, but there is nothing like interval training to help you get there. It is always hard work to run at your fastest, so don't try all the time or the joy may go. Parkrun is full of runners and walkers of all abilities and will be an inspiration for you, so give it a go and don't to forget to register your club as NHS C25k.